Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 motorcycles are hitting showrooms with a change in tyres from what was originally promised. The bikes were initially equipped with Pirelli Scorpion Rally STRs, which performed impressively on the road. However, the bikes are now being sold with locally manufactured Apollo Tramplr XR tyres.
The reason for this change lies in a new government regulation that bans the import of tyres in this specific size. The ban was implemented because there are locally made alternatives available in the same size. While individuals can still import these tyres for aftermarket use, the ban restricts the use of imported tyres in this size on original equipment manufacturer (OEM) two-wheelers.
It remains to be seen how this regulation will impact other Indian bikes that come with imported tyres, such as the KTM 390s with Metzeler M5 Sportecs and the TVS 310s with Michelin Road 5s. Currently, the Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 is only available with Apollo tyres.
Fortunately, the Apollo tyres have received positive feedback from limited experience. They are expected to perform well on highways in terms of stability. However, it remains to be seen if they can deliver the same exceptional edge grip that made the Pirelli tyres so impressive on winding roads.
The only downside for some buyers is that the price of the bike has not been reduced despite the shift to locally manufactured tyres.
Source: India Auto Car
Husqvarna